Giving Is Awesome - the decision

I'd like to thank everyone who nominated someone. I have been touched by every story. Out of respect for the recipient family, I will wait to speak with them directly before I share their story. With that said, the little I do know about this family, I'm very excited to be given the opportunity to photograph them, each and every one of them! That's just a hint of what's to come. :)

And because I don't like to post without a picture, this is my favorite ornament this year. I hope everyone has a warm, peaceful, loving Holiday Season and a Happy New Year! Merry Christmas.

snow day!!! {Michigan Child Photographer}

I certainly don't mind having a snow day! There is something fun about being able to stay in your pj's all day. And according to my kids, its even more fun to play in the snow! Crazy kids! Well it took about a half hour to get everyone all set in their snow gear and it was worth it to listen to their laughter and see their pink cheeks. The only down side to the snow day is that my oldest daughter missed her school Christmas party. I think a little fun in the snow made her feel better.

peaches and cream {Michigan child photographer}

Baby A has the most beautiful skin - very peaches and cream - lucky girl! I couldn't get over her baby blues and adorable cheeks! She has such a sweet personality too. Getting her picture taken was very serious business but I did sneak out a smile or two.

squishy baby love {Michigan newborn photographer}

I love babies and this adorable boy is no exception. He stole my heart the second I saw him. He was so content the entire time I was poking and moving him. Can you believe he is only about 1 1/2 weeks old in these pictures?! He is delicious! Many thanks to Auntie Page who gifted me to this wonderful family and thanks to K and K for letting me rearrange their house and poke and love on their very precious baby. Please give baby R a kiss from me. warmly, K

a gift {Michigan children's photographer}

This time of year is one of my favorite (minus the cold!). I love how excited my kids get over simple Christmas lights, snow falling, visiting their grandparents, hot chocolate, I love spending time with family and splurging on good food...this year I'm saddened and constantly reminded on how hard things are for so many of us, especially here in Michigan. A fellow photographer Kristen Kalp from Essential Imagery was the brains and heart behind this movement and has encouraged the photography community to join in. So read below to get the details (in the words of Kristen- thanks!).

You know someone. You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography - complimentary session, slideshow and $250 print credit, to be exact...it's in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a complimentary custom photography session and a $100 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:

You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

The nominee must reside in south east Michigan or willing to travel to south east Michigan. Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well. All entries must be received by December 22, 2008, at midnight.

Comment on this blog entry to let me know you've entered, and e-mail me the full story: info@KristaMuskovinPhotography.com

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve...get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season – and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

Click on the link below (or go to www.GivingIsAwesome.com) to be taken to a list of other participating photographers around the world. Think BIG!!

GivingIsAwesome

Thank you! Krista

3 brothers {Michigan Children's photographer}

I'm imagining all the fun these brothers will have as they grow up together. Mr. T, the oldest, is so so sweet and charming and you can see how handsome he is. Mr. A, the middle, is shy and adorable. It took him some time to warm up and a little coaxing to come out of his shell. I think he liked giving me funny faces best :) And then there is baby B ~ I just love babies and he's so lucky to have his big brothers (do you think he was sticking his tongue out at me?!?!). It was nice meeting you boys!